idea for vocab

Home

Chat

Blogs

Collection

Directory

Home : 2003 : October : 25

idea for vocab
By sj

I just started this this year, but am really enjoying it. I created a narrated Powerpoint presentation that has me leading my students through high-frequency words, math fact drills, poem recitation, and vocabulary words
and their definitions. My students arrive at 7:45 and class is to begin at 8:30. I start this Powerpoint at 8:00 and let it run for 30 minutes while I check in homework, take up popcorn money, tutor, or do other early morning housekeeping chores. I change the presentation every couple of days to keep it fresh. For the vocabulary, I type the word on the screen, then give a second or

two for students to read the word and give their definition before my voice reads the word and gives the definition. My students are learning about 20 words per week, and they seem to enjoy it as much as I do. I made sure to put in some stand-up-and move body-plays in between the different drills so that they wouldn't be just sitting on the carpet for 30 minutes. This has been a great way for me to "buy" some time. We now have a "deal" made that if they participate well with the Powerpoint practice we will turn off the sound for the vocabulary portion, pair off into two teams (like a spelling bee), and take turns trying to read and define the word before it goes off the screen--giving points to the team whose member correctly reads and defines. This game takes only about 5-7 minutes, is a fun way to start the day, and leads directly into my reading lesson that starts the day. Hope the idea helps!